KEYLONG: The high land Ramsar site of  Chandratal and Kunzum Pass have been temporarily closed to tourists due to snowfall in this and higher region of Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.  MulKila, Chandra Bhaga, and Kunjam Mountains wore the white blanket of snow, creating a winter wonderland at high altitudes.

However, for farmers in the area, the snowfall poses challenges as they are yet to harvest offseason vegetables, as well as apple and pea crops in Lahaul-Spiti.

With the sudden drop in temperature to a chilling five degrees Celsius, both locals and tourists are experiencing a dramatic shift in weather conditions.

Responding to the adverse weather conditions, Lahaul-Spiti administration has taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of both locals and tourists.

Today, they announced the shutdown of their police post at Chandra Tal, and a tourism advisory has been issued, urging visitors to refrain from venturing beyond Koksar and to avoid visiting Chandertal due to the fresh snowfall.

The relentless snowfall, particularly in the Kunzum Pass standing at a staggering 15,500 feet, has forced authorities to close the Gramphu-Batal-Kunjam and Kaza Road until further notice.

The Manali-Keylong, Keylong-Tandi-Udaipur and Sansari Nala Highway remain open for traffic.

This decision aims to prevent any potential risks to travelers as the region copes with the snowfall.

Interestingly, this isn't the first time that the area has witnessed snowfall in September and October. In both 2018 and 2019, unseasonal snowfall was recorded in Lahaul-Spiti, resulting in significant damage to apple orchards and crops. This had a profound impact on the local economy.

For tourists, this unexpected snowfall has come as a delightful surprise, offering a unique experience in the stunning landscapes of Lahaul-Spiti.